KUCHING: A total of 148 hotspots were detected in Sarawak from August 1 to 19, compared to 7,286 hotspots recorded in neighbouring Kalimantan, Indonesia, over the same period.
The ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) reported that moderate-to-dense transboundary smoke plumes from West Kalimantan are drifting northwards into western Sarawak, causing ambient air quality across the state to deteriorate since early August.
In a statement on August 21, Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) said that nine areas in Sarawak recorded Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in the ‘Unhealthy’ category (101-200) as of 8:00 am today.
Serian and Lubok Antu recorded the highest readings at 185, followed by Kuching (180), Lundu (175), Samarahan, Sri Aman, Sarikei, Sibu, and Tebedu.
Meanwhile, eight other areas recorded ‘Moderate’ air quality (API 51–100): Mukah, Kapit, Bintulu, Samalaju, Miri, ILP Miri, Limbang, and Lawas.
NREB cautioned that with the active Southwest Monsoon phase expected to last until this September, persistent south-westerly winds will continue transporting biomass smoke into Sarawak, prolonging haze conditions if open burning across the border worsens.
The public is advised to take precautions during this hot spell, including drinking sufficient water, reducing strenuous outdoor activities and wearing protective face masks outdoors, especially for high-risk groups.
Earlier, the Sarawak State Education Department issued a school closure notice effective from August 20 to 21 due to the deteriorating haze situation.
In the meantime, NREB sternly warns against open burning during dry periods.
Offenders face prosecution under Section 30(1)(a) and Section 30(2) of the Natural Resources and Environment Ordinance (Cap. 84 – Laws of Sarawak, Ed. 1958), carrying fines up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
Members of the public are urged to suppress small fires and report open burning to the nearest NREB Office or via the NREB Hotline at 082-447488 or 082-319500.
Whistleblower identity and confidentiality are guaranteed under Section 38 of the same Ordinance.
